Steelers Eyeing Quarterback Options Amid Malik Willis Buzz
The Pittsburgh Steelers are making headlines as they contemplate their quarterback strategy for the offseason. All eyes are on Malik Willis, the Green Bay Packers' backup, who is set to be the most sought-after free agent quarterback. At just under 30, Willis stands out as the only potential starter in the market, making him a hot commodity.
The demand for Willis is driving up his asking price significantly. Reports from NFL insider Jordan Schultz suggest that teams interested in Willis are bracing for a contract in the ballpark of $30 to $35 million annually.
This figure aligns with the earnings of established starters like Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, and Geno Smith. Even the reigning MVP Matt Stafford earns only slightly more at $40 million per year.
It's a hefty price tag for a player with just six career starts. The Steelers had their eyes on Willis during the 2022 draft but opted for Kenny Pickett instead. Now, the question looms: are they ready to invest around $100 million in Willis?
Willis was initially drafted by the Tennessee Titans in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, 66 picks after Pickett. His time with the Titans saw limited action, with only three starts across two seasons. The team eventually chose Will Levis over him following Willis’ rookie year, leading to his move to Green Bay as Jordan Love’s backup.
In Green Bay, Willis found his stride, appearing in 11 games with three starts over two seasons. His performance improved dramatically, boasting a 78.7% completion rate, a 134.6 passer rating, and a 10.4 adjusted net yards per attempt. This is a significant leap from his time with the Titans, where he had a 53% completion rate, a 49.4 passer rating, and a 1.70 ANY/A.
Aside from the Steelers, teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, and New York Jets are also in the hunt for a quarterback this offseason.
For the Steelers, Aaron Rodgers remains their Plan A, but the potential bidding war for Willis could influence their decision-making process. As the offseason unfolds, the Steelers' quarterback situation will be one to watch closely.